Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a trial coupler system for use in preparing a patient for an implant. Certain embodiments provide a system including a coupling device (20) and a trial component interface (40) that allows a trial stem (100) to be offset in relation to the respective trial components at an orientation that matches the geometry of the patient. Once the precise positioning is obtained, the trial coupler device (10) can be locked while on the patient's bone so the assembly can be removed without disturbing the desired orientation.

Abstract: A bushing includes a base portion having a central axis, a substantially circular aperture extending through the base portion along the central axis, and a plurality of tapered fingers integral with and protruding from the base portion. Each of the tapered fingers are configured to deflect from a first position in which a bolt or similar fastener may pass through the bushing to a second position in which the bushing constricts or clamps down around the bolt. A coupling system and method for rigidly securing two or more components together using one or more bushings is also provided.

Abstract: A quick-operating locking fastener assembly for use in connecting members together, the fastener assembly comprising a fastener having a threaded shank, and a lock nut assembly receivable on the shank. The lock nut assembly includes a retainer having a passage for receiving the shank, and a seat formed in the retainer. An insert is held in the passage and has internal threads formed thereon for mating with threads of the shank. The insert is radially contractible and expandable between an engaged position in which the insert is threadably engaged with the shank and a disengaged position in which the insert is free to move axially along the shank without engagement of the insert with the shank.

Abstract: A connector for joining the ends of two pipes has a pair of half-sleeves, which fit around the pipe ends to form an inner sleeve. The inner sleeve has a tapered or conical outer surface, against which an outer sleeve presses. The outer sleeve is a single-piece sleeve with a tapered bore, the angle of the taper of which matches the angle of taper of the outer surface of the inner sleeve. The outer sleeve is slid over the inner sleeve and is clamped in intimate contact with the inner sleeve by a nut which is tightened onto a threaded end of the outer sleeve while an annular, inwardly - projecting flange of the nut bears against the ends of the half-sleeves. The surfaces of the half-sleeves are coated with adhesive before being placed around the pipe ends; this adhesive cures while the joint components are clamped together. Preferably each half-sleeve has a central rib at its mid-point, against which the ends of the pipes being joined abut.

Abstract: The locking screw for the adjustable connection of a hinge strap to a base plate of a hinge has an external thread, with which the locking screw is screwed into a corresponding threaded hole in the hinge flap. The end face of the bolt portion of the locking screw abuts on the corresponding face of the base plate. In order to ensure a secure seating of the locking screw even under changing loads, a plate spring is attached to the end face of the locking screw and is spring-loaded axially, which abuts the base plate with its spring front face.